| Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosions (BLEVEs) occur when a pressure-liquefied gas tank is burst and the fluid is ejected to the atmosphere. As the liquid is exposed to a lower pressure it boils violently, causing an explosion which destroys the container.;One litre tanks were filled with propane or R12, heated, and caused to rupture at specific test conditions to determine the parameters required for a BLEVE. Results showed that the energy stored in the liquid under pressure relative to the liquid at atmospheric conditions was a quantity which can be used to predict a BLEVE for the particular apparatus and conditions tested. The possible importance of the development of a shock wave within the container during a BLEVE was noted.;A shock tube was used to study the shock waves generated during a BLEVE. Temperature, liquid volume, rupture location, rupture area, and the fluid involved were varied. The pressure was measured vs time for periods immediately after the rupture. Photographs of the formation of the pressure waves were obtained using spark Schlieren photography. Similarities to waves during detonations in ducts were noticed.;Pressure information was also gathered during BLEVEs of the one litre cylinders. This data is compared to that from the shock tube.;Shock tube data showed that transverse waves formed from the initial pressure wave could be amplified. A possible mechanism for this application is suggested.;Suggestions for the prevention of BLEVEs based on the above findings have been made. |
